Brad McMichael, a 45-year-old farmer from Oklahoma, tragically lost his life after being attacked by two water buffaloes he had purchased just a day prior. The incident occurred in Jones, a small town located about 30 miles northeast of Oklahoma City on Friday.
Recent Acquisition and Circumstances of the Attack
McMichael had bought the water buffaloes at an auction, intending to utilize them for their meat production. While wild water buffaloes are known to be dangerous, domesticated versions are typically calm. However, they can become aggressive if provoked or threatened. The precise reasons behind the attack on McMichael remain unclear.
His girlfriend, Jennifer Green, spoke to KOCO, an Oklahoma-based TV news channel, emphasizing McMichael’s experience with farm animals. She stated:
“He saw the buffaloes as an opportunity for the meat.”
Understanding Animal Behavior
Green explained that livestock can exhibit aggressive behavior under certain circumstances:
“Livestock can be aggressive at any moment if they’re stressed, when they’re in an auction environment, when they’re traveling, or when they’re with a new owner.”
In response to the incident, both water buffaloes were euthanized after displaying aggressive behavior toward a responding police officer, according to the Jones police department.
Remembering Brad McMichael
McMichael’s girlfriend reflected on his love for animals, noting:
“He loved his livestock, and as tragic as this is, he died doing something that he loved. He loved to laugh. He loved to make other people laugh. Those that really knew him know what a huge loss and a huge void that is to fill.”
This heartbreaking event underscores the inherent risks associated with livestock farming, serving as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of even domesticated animals.
